Tension is rising as two factions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) prepare for a showdown over control of the party’s national secretariat, Wadata Plaza, in Abuja. Newly elected National Chairman Alhaji Tanimu Turaki has scheduled the inaugural meeting of the new National Working Committee (NWC) at the secretariat. Meanwhile, a faction loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike is convening emergency Board of Trustees (BoT) and National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings at the same location.
Former Niger State Governor Muazu Babangida Aliyu has likened the expulsion of several significant members from the PDP to a necessary surgical procedure aimed at revitalizing the party.
Security Preparedness
Turaki announced that the PDP has formally notified the FCT police command about their intention to hold the inaugural NWC meeting, emphasizing the need for security to prevent disruptions, particularly from expelled members attempting to organize their own meetings.
He stated, “The National Convention remains the highest decision-making body of the PDP… Our National Convention has taken a decision to expel these elements from the party.”
Turaki reassured party members that the NWC would proceed with their meeting planned for 10 a.m., asserting, “We are going to have the inaugural National Working Committee meeting… We’ll get in there, and then begin to perform the functions for which we’ve been elected.”
Despite acknowledging the possibility of resistance from Wike’s faction, Turaki emphasized the PDP’s right to reclaim its space. He articulated that while the party seeks peace, it is prepared to defend itself if necessary.
Wike’s Response
In contrast, Wike’s faction has scheduled their BoT meeting for 11 a.m. and the NEC for 2 p.m., highlighting that critical matters will be discussed. The faction dismissed Turaki’s expulsions as a “joke taken too far” and remains adamant about its legitimacy as the rightful leadership of the PDP.
Aliyu reiterated that the party should prevent Nigeria from becoming a one-party state, asserting, “We must provide an alternative to people.”
Future Prospects
Turaki has expressed a commitment to reconciliation, stating he is willing to engage with all members, including those who have felt sidelined. He declared that the party must unify to reclaim power in the upcoming general elections, promising to apologize where necessary.
As the factions gear up for their respective meetings, the future of the PDP hangs in the balance, with analysts keenly observing the developments that may shape the party’s direction heading into the 2027 elections.
